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An International Look for People
Who Make a Difference
December 2004
January 2005
Two Dollars
Bill Clinton’s
Presidential Library
---Los Angeles Opera
Opening Nights
Carmen, La Bohème and Vanessa
---Holiday Couture
----
50th Anniversary Gala
Young Musicians Foundation
----
Great
Hotels of the World
Huntington Hotel and Spa, San Francisco
Ballantyne Resort and Spa, Charlotte, North Carolina
Kevin Parker with a $2 Million Jewelry Wreath of David Webb’s Jewelry
Chairman, of A Musical Evening
Walt Disney Concert Hall February 23, 2005
Celebrating the Songs of Burt Bacharach and Hal David
Honoring Hal David
VALENTINO
DAVID WEBB
P R E C I O U S
(New Location)
New York
789 Madison Avenue
212.421.3030
J E W E L S
Beverly Hills
Regent Beverly Wilshire Hotel
9500 Wilshire Boulevard
310.858.8006
CHRISTIAN LACROIX
Young Musicians Foundation 50th Anniversary Gala
Honoring John Williams, Merv Griffin and Carl Reiner
T
he most fabulous evening at the Beverly Wilshire Hotel was the Young Musicians Foundation Gala. It was star-studded from front
to back: John Williams’ music was great and the audience loved it. Edye Rugalo has done such a fabulous job with this organization they
should all be very proud. Congratulations for another 50 years.
LF
YMF Debut Orchestra
Carl, Merv and John at Gala
Anne Jeffreys
Lladro's Anita Reedy
John Williams conducting
the YMF Orchestra
Edye Rugolo and John Williams
Merv Griffin on stage at the
YMF 50th Anniversary Gala
Brooks Brothers' James Jahant
Montblanc's Janet Shin
and Olena Zoytekhouska
YMF Debut Orchestra
Barbi Benton
LUPUS AWARDS
and
The Bag Lady Luncheon
E
ntertainment Industry Icon Wayne Newton and his wife Kathleen received the 2004 Loop Award presented by their good friends Marla and Bud Paxson
at Lupus LA's fourth annual "An Evening of Love, Light & Laughter". The event was co-chaired by Carrie and Bernie Brillstein, Marla and Bud Paxson and Gretchen
Wayne was held at The Beverly Hills Hotel. In excess of $350,000 was raised for the Lupus Research Institute for Lupus research. Sabrina's Melissa Joan Hart received
the Michael Wayne Public Service, which was presented by his widow and event co-chair, Gretchen Wayne. Comedian Paul Rodriguez entertained the audience along
with recording artist Bonnie McKee. Craig Kilborn shared some insights about his friend Wayne Newton and Suzanne Whang served as MC.
Other honorees included: Lupus LA founding committee member and advocate Dorothy Ellis, who was introduced by writer/director David Zucker. UCLA's Deborah
McCurdy MD received the Medical Visionary Award from Lupus LA founder Daniel J. Wallace MD. Carrie and Bernie Brillstein presented to longtime friends Beverly
Sassoon and Avery/Dennison's Philip Neal as Champions of Humanity. Waterfall Film's Adam Selkowitz produced the event.
Lupus is one of the country's most prevalent, unpredictable and potentially fatal medical problems. This autoimmune disease that affects over two million Americans
is very difficult to diagnose and there is no cure. Lupus LA was formed fiver years ago by Daniel J. Wallace MD, one of the country's prominent Lupus specialists, to
raise funds for Lupus research through the Lupus Research Institute.
This evening brought together the entertainment, business and medical communities. The guest list included: Brittany Murphy, Ryan O'Neal, Andrea Roth (Rescue Me),
Shondrella Avery (Napoleon Dynamite), Julie Benz (Angel), Howie D (Backstreet Boys), Craig Kilborn, Jim Gianopulos (Fox, Chairman), Frankie Avalon (Grease),
Patrika Darbo (Days of Our Lives), Dayna Devon (Extra), Scott Grimes (ER), Taraji P. Henson (Hair Show), Kerr Smith (Dawson's Creek, Charmed), Suzanne Whang
(HGTV's House Hunters), KaDee Strickland (Anacondas, The Grudge), Alex Yemenidjian, Sally Struthers (Gilmore Girls) and Kellie Martin (ER, Law & Order SVU).
Luncheon Co-Chairs: Carol Weisman (the honoree), Carrie Brillstein,
Marla Paxson, Peri Ellen Berne and Julia van Hees
Gretchen Wayne
and Melissa Joan Hart
Dr. Deborah McCurdy
Actress KaDee
Strickland and
Tony Award
Winner
Marissa Jaret
Winokur
Kerr Smith and
Julie Benz
Actress Julie Benz
and Melissa Joan Hart
Dorothy Ellis & David Zucker
Brittany Murphy
Mario van Peebles and
KaDee Strickland
Beverly Sassoon, Philip Neal, Carrie Brillstein, Marla Paxson
Actress Sharon Case
with her donated
hand bag
Kellie Martin and
Nicole Paxson
Bernie Brillstein, Ryan O'Neal and Freedie Fields
Wayne Newton and
Craig Kilborn
Sandy & Al Goldman of Party Concepts
Arlene and David Ray
Lee Iaccoa, Patricia Kennedy Birthday Girl Bobbye Steinberg and her husband Mort
Bobbye Steinberg's Birthday Bash
Two hundred people gathered at the Beverly Hills Hotel to celebrate Bobbye's birthday. Everyone was dressed to the NINES and they
all had a great tim. They were entertained by Wayne Foster and his ensemble of forty. The party was produced by Sandy Goldman
of Party Concepts. The theme of the party was Hollywood glamour and glitz. The night was known as "Hooray for Hollywood". Photos
by Stuart Townsley of Dahl Photography.
Mort & Bobbye Steinberg & children
Roberta Horwitch and Bobbye Steinberg
Stanly Black, Bobbye, Joyce Black and Mort
Friends
Marty and Evi Lutin
Friends
The Fabulous Wayne Foster Orchestra
The Girlfriends
2005, Music Center Launches
Groundbreaking Speaker Series
Bill Clinton to speak, March 8th and 9th, 2005--
A
groundbreaking lecture series that will feature a roster of distinguished experts in the fields of politics, culture, and media. Presented in two
separate series, the Music Center Speaker Series includes: appearances by
Tom Brokaw, William Jefferson Clinton, David Gergen, Gwen Ifill, Daniel
Libeskind, Queen Noor and Charlie Rose. This influential roster of speakers
will cover a wide range of topics-from world cultures and the power of the
media to architecture and local urban landscapes. The lectures, presented in
the Walt Disney Concert Hall and the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion are scheduled between January and May, 2005 (complete schedule follows).
"We're extremely proud to present this group of powerful and articulate
speakers to Los Angeles," said Stephen D. Rountree, President of the Music
Center. "In launching the Music Center Speaker Series, we aim to establish
a valuable and engaging civic forum for the exchange of ideas and opinions."
Tickets available only by subscription. Series A includes Her Majesty Queen
Noor of Jordan, Charlie Rose, William Jefferson Clinton and Daniel
Libeskind. Series B includes: Gwen Ifill, William Jefferson Clinton, Tom
Brokaw and David Gergen. Subscribers have the option of purchasing additional tickets to either of the two Clinton events. Lectures are scheduled in the
Frank Gehry-designed Walt Disney Concert Hall with the exception of the
two Clinton programs, which are presented in the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion.
The Speaker Series is presented by the Music Center of Los Angeles County
and produced by Alan Rothenberg and Dan Savage of SR Productions.
For additional information or to subscribe to the Music Center
Speaker Series, visit www.musiccenter.org or call (310) 271-6631, between
10 am and 6 pm.
Series A
Her Majesty Queen Noor of Jordan
Wednesday, January 12, 2005
Her Majesty Queen Noor was born Lisa Najeeb Halaby to an Arab-American
family. After receiving a B.A. in Architecture and Urban Planning from Princeton
University, she worked on international urban planning and design projects in
Australia, Iran, the United States, and the Arab World. She married His Majesty
King Hussein in 1978 and since that time, she has directed and sponsored
projects and activities in Jordan to address specific national development
needs in the areas of education, culture, women and children's welfare, human
rights, conflict resolution, and environmental and architectural conservation.
Charlie Rose
Monday, February 21, 2005
Emmy award-winning journalist Charlie Rose has been praised as "one of America's
premier interviewers." He is the host of Charlie Rose, the nightly PBS program that
engages America's best thinkers, writers, politicians, entertainers, business leaders,
scientists and other newsmakers. He is also a correspondent for 60 Minutes II. Rose
has interviewed major international political figures including statesmen Nelson
Mandela and Mikhail Gorbachev, Nobel laureate Toni Morrison, and business leaders Bill Gates and Andy Grove. In the artistic arena Rose's guests range from actor
Tom Hanks to musicians Bruce Springsteen and Yo-Yo Ma.
William Jefferson Clinton, 42nd President of the United States
Tuesday, March 8, 2005, Dorothy Chandler Pavilion
William Jefferson Clinton was elected President of the United States in 1992, and
again in 1996. Under his leadership, the United States enjoyed the strongest economy in a generation and the longest economic expansion in U.S. history. Clinton
currently focuses much of his time on the William J. Clinton Presidential
Foundation, established to strengthen the capacity of people in the United States
and throughout the world to meet the challenges of global interdependence. To
accomplish this mission, the Foundation currently focuses its work in five critical
areas: the battle against HIV/AIDS; racial, ethnic and religious reconciliation; citizen
service; economic empowerment of poor people; and leadership development.
Daniel Libeskind
Tuesday, May 31, 2005
Daniel Libeskind is an international figure in architectural practice and urban
design and is known for introducing a new critical discourse into architecture.
His practice extends from building major cultural institutions, to landscape and
urban projects and stage and exhibition design. His designs include the Jewish
Museum Berlin; The Felix Nussbaum Haus, Osnabrück, Germany; and Atelier
Weil, Puerto de Andratx, Mallorca. He is presently designing and constructing
myriad projects including The Jewish Museum in San Francisco; the Extension
to the Denver Art Museum; and the Extension to the Royal Ontario Museum,
Toronto. Most recently, Daniel Libeskind was named lead architect for the
rebuilding of the World Trade Center site in New York City.
8 Beverly Hills Sheet
Series B
Gwen Ifill
Monday, February 7, 2005
Gwen Ifill is veteran journalist who speaks authoritatively with the wit
and wisdom that comes from her years of covering some of the toughest beats in Washington. As the moderator and managing editor of
PBS' Washington Week, Ifill gives the audience the benefit of her
insight on American politics, foreign policy, and the trends that most
affect business, family and government. Ifill served as national correspondent for NBC News, where she contributed to The Nightly News
with Tom Brokaw, Today and Meet the Press. She served as White
House correspondent for The New York Times and covered politics
and government for The Washington Post, The Baltimore Sun and the
Boston Herald Tribune. Recently, Ifill moderated the Cheney-Edwards
Vice Presidential Debate.
William Jefferson Clinton, 42nd President of the United States
Wednesday, March 9, 2005, Dorothy Chandler Pavilion
See description in Series A, above.
Tom Brokaw
Monday, April 11, 2005
Anchor and managing editor of the top-rated NBC Nightly News since
1993, Tom Brokaw has an impressive history of "firsts." He conducted the
first exclusive U.S. one-on-one interview with Miksail Gorbachev and was
the first American anchor to report on human-rights abuses in Tibet and to
conduct an interview with the Dalai Lama. Brokaw has received seven
Emmy Awards, including one for China in Crisis and another for his coverage of the Kosovo conflict. He has authored several books including
The Greatest Generation and An Album of Memories: Personal Histories
from the Greatest Generation, among others. In addition, Brokaw was
NBC's White House correspondent from 1973 to 1976 and anchored
Today from 1976 to 1981.
David Gergen
Thursday, May 5, 2005
From Nixon to Clinton, Watergate to Whitewater, few Americans have
observed the ups and downs of presidential leadership more closely over
the past thirty years than David Gergen. A White House adviser to four
presidents, both Republican and Democrat, he offers a vivid, behind-thescenes account of their struggles to exercise power and draws from them
key lessons for leaders of the future. Drawing upon all his many experiences in the White House, he offers seven key lessons for leaders of the
future. What they must have, he says, are: inner mastery; a central, compelling purpose rooted in moral values; a capacity to persuade; skills in
working within the system; a fast start; a strong, effective team; and a passion that inspires others to keep the flame alive.
The Music Center of Los Angeles County is one of the three largest
performing arts centers in the nation. Located in downtown Los Angeles,
the Music Center is home to the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion, Ahmanson
Theatre, Mark Taper Forum, and Walt Disney Concert Hall. Each year, the
Music Center welcomes more than 1.3 million people to performances by
its four internationally renowned performing arts companies: the Los
Angeles Philharmonic, Center Theatre Group, Los Angeles Opera, and
the Los Angeles Master Chorale, as well as a full season of dance presented by the Dance at the Music Center. The Music Center Education
Division provides the finest in arts education to hundreds of thousands
each year while providing leadership to advance the quality and scope of
arts education in Southern California.
The Music Center/Performing Arts Center of Los Angeles County
is located at 135 North Grand Avenue.
For information, call (213) 972-7211 or visit www.musiccenter.org.
William Jefferson Clinton’s
Presidential Library
Saint John's Health Center Foundation
T
he festivities to celebrated the completion of new North Pavilion at Saint John's Health Center for the donors who contributed to
help build new building. The building was blessed by Cardinal Mahony in a special Mass, attended by hospital staff, physicians and
friends of Saint John's. The official dedication celebration took place with special remarks by honored guest First Lady of California,
Maria Shriver. The North Pavilion is now open to patients.
Sister Marie Madeleine, President of Saint John's Health Center, George
Fenimore and Mary Davis, trustee of Saint John's Health Center Foundation and
Bruce Lamoureux, CEO of Saint John's at the donor dinner.
State Senator Sheila Kuehl; LA County Supervisor Zev Yaroslavsky, Sister Joan Sue, Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth; Bruce
Lamoureux, CEO of Saint John's Health Center; A. Redmond Doms, Chairman of the Saint John's Health System Foundation
Board, Sister Marie Madeleine, President of Saint John's Health Center, Carl W. MacKinzie, Esq., Chairman of the Board, Saint
John's Health Center dedication.
President of Saint John's Health Center, Robert Wagner, trustee of the Saint John's
Health Center Foundation and wife Jill St. John, and Bruce Lamoureux, CEO of
Saint John's Health Center.
Sister Marie Madeleine, President of Saint John's Heath Center,
Dr. John Robertson, cardiovascular surgeon and member of the
Board of Trustees of the Saint John's Health Center Foundation and his
wife, Jill, a member of the Irene Dunn Guild, a volunteer group at the
hospital, and Bruce Lamoureux, CEO of Saint John's Health Center.
Dr. Maggie DiNome, surgeon at Saint John's Health Center
and her husband Girard DiNome
Marilyn McCoo
and Billy Davis, Jr.
Marilyn McCoo
and Billy Davis, Jr.
first gained international fame fronting
one of the biggest
groups of the late
‘60s, The
5th
Dimension, whose
many hits include,
“Up, Up and Away”
and “The Age of
Aquarius/Let the
Sun Shine In!”
They make their
home
in
Los
Angeles, California.
This book is a
must-read!
The new hospital
First Lady of California Maria Shriver and Sister Marie Madeleine, President of Saint
John's Health Center in front of The Maria Shriver Nursery in the new North Pavilion.
Saint John's Health Center Foundation trustee and Sister
Marie Madeleine, president of Saint John's Health Center
10 Beverly Hills Sheet
The new North Pavilion at Saint John's Health Center is officially dedicated.
Hal David
to be Honored at
Walt Disney Concert Hall
February 23, 2005
A Musical Evening
Celebrating Burt Bacharach &
Hal David’s Music
THE ACHIEVEMENT AWARD
Hal David
Presented by Burt Bacharach
to receive
Dr. Keith Black and Dr. Carol Bennett
to receive HUMANITARIAN
AWARDS
A Special Tribute
to
The Music of Ray Charles
Starring:
Freda Payne
Broadway Star, Eugene Hurbin
Gay Men’s Chorus, Los Angeles
Organist, Bob Ralston
Side Orchestra Tickets $65, $85,
Center Orchestra $200 and Pre-Reception
For ticket information call:
Walt Disney Concert Hall Box Office 213.972.7211
323.938.9411
Kevin Parker,
Chairman
Benefiting the SESA Conservatory Summer Classical Music Program
Shrek 2 Spago’s Bash
Dale Olson
DreamWorks
turned the entrance to Spago into Far Far Away, the Castle of the King
and Queen in “Shrek 2,” for more than 200 revelers celebrating the DVD release of the picture, named
by the Guiness Book of World Records as the top-grossing animation feature in history.
Entering to Royal splendor were: Eddie Murphey (Donkey), Mike Myers (Shrek), Larry King (Ugly
Stepsister) and Julie Andrews (Queen), as well as Executive Producer Jeffrey Katzenberg. Also on
hand were: directors Andrew Adamson, Kelly Asbury and Conrad Vernon and producers Aron Warner,
DAvid Lipman and John H. Williams, most of them filling out voices of other characters in the popular
fairy tale. Larry King brought along his two sons to enjoy the festivities, including decorating gingerbreadmen for Christmas ornaments, which Jayne Meadows and Carol Doheny enjoyed all evening.
Among other industryites surrounding the groaning Wolfgang Puck tables and overflowing bars were
such as Marion Ross and Paul Michael, Earl Holliman, Joanne Worley with Tom Williams, Red
Buttons with America’s top folk artist Jane Wooster Scott, Charlotte Rae, Jack Carter, Camryn
Manheim, and Tyler Hoechlin. Maybe the DVD will be cited by Guiness, too. It took in another $200
million in just the first weekend. Is there another “Shrek” Oscar? I suspect so.
Dascha’s
White Glove Brunch at McDonald’s
Dascha Stuart threw a dressy white glove brunch at
McDonald’s, yes at McDonald’s on Pico. The waiters wore
white gloves to serve McDonald’s food to an elegantly dressed
crowd with tablecloths and fresh flowers. All 45 of Beverly Hills
and Aspen elite were there. Lita Heller the grand dame of
Aspen flew in for the brunch. It was great fun! Everyone raved.
Birthday Girl
Helga Auerbach-Jennings
Ruth March and Charles Kenis
Spago entrance converted
to castle Far Far Away
Red Buttons
Jeffrey Katzenberg, Julie Andrews, Mike Myers
Chance (5) and Larry King
Marion Ross with
Paul Michael in
the background
Lita Heller
Baby Ida and Katarina
Allen-Auerbach
Roni Heller
Dascha Stuart
Betty Deutch
Phyllis Wiseman
Joanne Worley
Birthday Girl,
Margaret Kott
Eddie Murphy, Mike Myers, Julie Andrews
Camryn Manheim
Tyler Hoechlin
Kelly Avery, Director of Dreamworks Home Video, and directors Kelly Asbury, Conrad Vernon, Jeffrey Katzenberg, David Lipman
Margaret Kott, Kevin Parker and Millicent Posen
Bunny Gottlieb, Margaret Kott and Lila Jadri
The Blue Ribbon’s
The Writer, The Singer, The Song
If you missed it, Shame on you! It was without a doubt an old-fashioned star filled evening of stories and songs and how they were written and in many cases who they
were written about, old loves, etc. and new ones too.
The program brought together songwriters and the voices who made their songs come alive, whether they were a hit or not, but 98% were hits. The program featured Hal
David with Herb Alpert, Bill Withers with Peabo Bryson, Carol Bayer Sager, Jimmy Webb with Marilyn McCoo and Billy Davis, Jr. singing “Up, Up and Away!”, Paul Williams,
songwriter and the MC for the evening, Charles Strouse, who remarked that the theme song for All in the Family, he was paid $200. The audience had a good laugh out of that.
It was so great, you should put it on your 2005 calendar not to be missed again!
Joyce and Kent Kresa with Cheryl and Horst Osterkamp
Chairman and event producers Hal and Eunice David
Diner co-chairs Joni Smith, Shannan Swanson Binder, and Jenny Jones
Walter Grauman
Sheila and Wally Weisman
Dwight Kendall
Dona Kendall
Allan and Joan Burns
Brindell and Milton Gottlieb
Suzanne Marx
Steve and Judith Krantz
Buzz and Lois Aldrin
Carousel of Hope
Joan Collins & Guest
Rebecca De Mornay
Nicolette Sheridan & Eva Longoria,
Hot, Hot Desperate Housewives
Courtney Peldon
Kristin Davis
Beyonce & Muhammed Ali
Barbara & Dana Davis
Cheryl Tiegs & Guest
Sidney Portier & David Foster
Lara Flynn Boyle
Shakira & Michael Caine
Carousel of Hope
Beyonce Knowles
Richard Riordan & wife Nancy
Barbara Sinatra
Ivana Trump
George & Jolene Schlatter
Rod Stewart & Penny Lancaster
Jane Seymour
Jamie Lynn DiScala & Amanda Bynes
Robert Graham Jr. & Anjelica Houston
Berry Gordy & Clive Davis
Halle Berry
La Bohème
Jackie Applebaum and Opera Administrative Director, Elizabeth Kennedy
Underwriters of La Boheme, Richard Seaver and Sara Jayne Kimm
La Boheme cast members: Roberto Alagna (Rodolfo), Shelley Jameson (Musetta)
and Marco Berti (Rodolfo)
Dennis and Elizabeth Tito
Gil and Sookie Garcetti
LA Opera Orchestra Conductor, Lawrence Foster
Beverly Hills Sheet
Credits
Contributing editors, Cover stories by:
Christina Basi, Jennifer Lucy, Earl Heath, Dale Olson, Anita
Talbert Entertainment, Kevin Lee, Terry L. King, Executive
Travel Editor, Link Mathewson Travel Editor and Newport
Beach Reporter, Dasha Stuart Travel Editor
Correspondents
Earl Heath, Sports Editor, William Moore, European Travel
Editor and Marcia Mosebay, Hotel, Spa and Dining
Beverly Hills Sheet
is published bi-monthly by Forbes Publishing
Editor-in-chief, LaVetta - Editorial and Advertising offices at
5455 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 1508, Los Angeles, CA 90036
Tel 323.938.9411 - Fax 323.938.1933
Not responsible for unsolicited materials
Copyright 2004/2005
Artistic Director
Free Design Studio, Hollywood
Cover photo Kim Canazzi, other photographers:
Opera coverage Lee Salem
Carousel of Hope Berliner Studios
http://www.beverlyhillssheet.com
Opera Board President, Frank Baxter, Underwriters Sara Jayne Kimm and Richard Seaver,
Ana Maria Martinez (Mimi") and Opera Artistic Director Edgar Baitzel
Los Angeles Opera Opening
Carmen
"Lillas Pasta" (a character, portrayed
by) Worthie Meacham
Board Members, Nick Ciriello, Dave Barry and Alice Coulombe
"Carmen" director, Emilio Sagi with the
"other Carmen" Catherine Malfitano
"Micaela" singer,
Carmen Giannattasio
John and Leslie Dorman
Placido Domingo and performer of the
"Don Jose" character, Richard Leech
First opening night "Carmen", Milaen Kitic with
Board Chairman and CEO, Marc Stern
Sebastian and Marybelle Musco, "Carmen" underwriters,
flank, Erwin Schrott, who plays "Escamillo"
"Carmen" Underwriters, Sebastian Musco (left) and his wife Marybelle Musco
(2nd from right) mingle with Marta (2nd from left) and Placido Domingo
Reneé Kumetz,
A stunning “Carmen”
alternate "Micaela", Angela Marambio, Catherine Malfitano, the conductor,
Nicola Luisotti and alternate "Don Jose", Mario Malagnin
Stanley and Joyce Black, former Cal. Governor and now
Oakland Mayor, Jerry Brown
Los Angeles Opera Opening
Vanessa
Starring Kiri Te Kanawa as Vanessa. She was great! The role of Erika was played by Lucy Schaufer. The role of the Baroness was played by Rosalind Elias, who was
the original Erika in 1958 when Vanessa was first introduced. This is a must see. The opera is in English. It has all the things we like in an opera, a lavish home, sex,
adultery and of course betrayal. L.F.
Michael and Claudia Margolis
Star of the evening,
Kiri Te Kanawa
below:
Nicole Videriksen
Kathy and Opera Board President Frank Baxter with "Vanessa" conductor, Simone Young
Rosalind Elias ("The Baroness")
Lucy Schaufer ("Erika")
JI HAYE
VALENTINO
Ballantyne Resort and Spa
Charlotte, North Carolina
O
ut of a beautiful marriage, and according to Sara H. Bissell…"a labor of love", an urban oasis blossomed.
Smoky and Sara H. Bissell, the highly qualified hoteliers's and driving force of the Bissell Companies, have created a first-class and opulent Ballantyne Resort in Charlotte, North Carolina. Sara's father, the late James J.
Harris, left 1750 acres of property in Charlotte to his three children. Thus, the Bissell's dream for a beautiful resort
began. Smokey bought 525 acres from the family and started plans for office buildings and the hotel. Equipped
with their hotel operating experience, and the expertise of Wayne Shusko a longtime Bissell Hotel's manager, they
developed a boutique hotel surpassing the elegance of their Park Hotel in Charlotte. They named the hotel in
honor of a great-aunt Barbara Ballantyne. Graham Asher, the new Ballantye Resort General Manager brings his
expertise and experience from some of the world's finest hotels including the Regent International Hotels of Hong
Kong, and the Helmsley Hotel in New York City. He also managed the estates and palaces of Prince Bandar bin
Sultan, the Saudi Arabian Ambassador to the United States.
Upon entering this magnificent property I was in awe of the "grand-rotunda" lobby that overlooks the golf course.
The large floral arrangements are exquisite. The majestic breakfront that once resided in the office of Prince
Charles' philanthropy sits regally in sight. The beautiful antique furnishings throughout the hotel were purchased
from several English countryside shops and Paris Flea Markets. Carpets were hand-loomed in England. Two silk
prints in the Magnolia Room originated in Singapore. The hotel luggage racks are replicas from the Oriental Hotel
in Bangkok. All 214-deluxe rooms and suites have a separate soaking tub and shower; marble flooring; a two-tier
European-style vanity, and
plush fabrics. One of a kind collection of fine oil paintings by
Vermont artist Tom Vieth that
depict parts of Charlotte adorns
the hotel walls.
"Conte Naste Johansens"
named the Spa at Ballantyne
one of the Top Three Spas in
North America. It has 17 treatment rooms and features over
60 spa experiences. Judy Stell, Spa Director, graciously met me upon arrival and personally assisted with arranging my spa treatments. My experience was replete with an
Aromatherapy facial and the "Ballantyne Swedish Massage". Ironically, each of my very
skilled service providers was named Lisa. They both provided me with a fulfilling, relaxing and comfortable experience. Following my treatments I relaxed in the lovely
women's lounge that was stocked with a variety of complimentary herbal teas, beverages, and fresh snacks. I was able to look directly out onto the golf course, indulge
myself with the repast, read and nap…I did all of it. Later when I decided to get into the
wave-lap pool I realized that it was
co-ed and oops! I had forgotten my
bathing suit…oh well it's something I
hope to do on my return visit. Before
leaving the spa I completed my evaluation sheet with excellent marks to
each question.
An oriental "Tuk Tuk", which is a small truck that was used many years ago in Hong Kong to transport produce throughout busy streets to hotels, sits prominently in a corner just steps away from dining in The Grill Room and Traditions.
Under the fine helm of Executive Chef Adam Long, who shops regularly for fresh produce at the Farmer's Market, I
enjoyed lunch at the Grill Room where I had a wonderful fresh vegetable burger and sampled his delicious buffet items.
For dinner at Traditions I savored an appetizer special of succulent pan-seared Diver Scallops and Heirloom tomato
wedges placed on top of Frissee Greens-dressed with light Champagne Chervil Vinaigrette. My Entrée Special was a
beautifully plated pan-seared Black Grouper, Acorn Squash Gnocchi, Lobster, and sautéed spinach perched in a delicate Sherry Reduction Cream. A Grand Marnier of stewed strawberries crowned with fresh vanilla ice cream was my
divine finale. I especially appreciated Traditions kind and attentive service provided by my server Sa'eed Yasin. The
moment I arrived Sa'eed noticed that I was wearing black. He immediately retrieved a black napkin from a sixteendrawer antique chest in the dining room to protect my black dress…now that represented the exceptional service that
continued throughout the resort.
The beautiful Lodge at Ballantyne has 35 large executive rooms adjacent to the first fairway at the Resort's golf course. With the highest level of privacy it is an ideal location for executive conferences and training groups. Guest rooms are equipped with high-speed Internet access and many have private balconies overlooking the golf
course. There are 2000 square feet of meeting space with a conference room, 4 breakfast rooms and an
outdoor patio for cookouts. The spacious hallway extends into an expansive great room called Timbers.
I was invited in to see its vaulted spruce ceilings, custom furnishings, and a grand two-sided floor to ceiling stone fireplace that sits in
the middle of the room. There
is plenty of comfortable plush
seating to watch the wide
screen TV. I was tempted to
sit in one of the rocking chairs
on Timbers porch with perfect
views of the golf course. The
2nd floor has a loft appointed
with a "snooker" table, game
tables, and a view overlooking the entire first floor and
the wide screen TV. I was
delighted to have an opportunity to see this private and
exclusive facility.
The
Bissell's
luxurious
Ballantyne Resort and the city
of Charlotte certainly do provide visitors with the ultimate
in genuine Southern hospitality. I highly recommend that
you plan to visit this gracious
city and enjoy Ballantyne
Resort as "The" place to stay.
Marcia
The Huntington Hotel and Spa
San Francisco
T
he Huntington Hotel and Nob Hill Spa sit atop San Franciscos world famous Nob Hill, with spectacular
views of one of the most romantic cities in the world. Guests can indulge in the sweeping vistas, and grand views
of the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz , the beautiful San Francisco bay, and of course the famous little Cable Cars to
the stars. Arriving at the Huntington Hotel is like coming home, if your home is a 135-room mansion with gorgeous
private guest suites, a spectacular full treatment spa, and The Big Four, one of Gourmet magazines top 20 restaurants in San Francisco. The Big Four is named for the four largest railroad tycoons of the day, all of whom resided
on Nob Hill: C.P. Huntington, Charles Crocker, Leland Stanford, and Mark Hopkins. This distinguished in-the-know
hotel, under the stewardship of P.R. Director Devon Beddard, was fully recognized in 2003 as one of Conde Nastes
Gold list best places to stay in the world, and by Travel and Leisure as one of the 500 best hotels in the world!
Located high atop Nob Hill with extraordinary views of the city, the Huntington Hotel defines class, sophistication and
timeless charm. With a reputation of quiet, understated luxury and its unsurpassed location within the “crown jewel” of
San Francisco, the Huntington Hotel still maintains its long-standing tradition of high standards and gracious service –
and now boasts the Nob Hill Spa, recently named by Allure magazine as the “One of the Best Hotel Spas in the Country.”
Since 1924, the Huntington has been consistently ranked as one of the most distinguished San Francisco luxury hotels
and as one of the finest places to
stay in the world.
Each illustrious, celebratory
space within the Huntington
Hotel offers a rich, elegant décor
and an unsurpassed ambiance
that exudes tradition and oldworld style. As a full-service, fourdiamond property with a strong,
time honored practice of hospitality, this San Francisco luxury
hotel provides attentive service
with the grace of yesteryear.Their
seasoned event staff will work
closely with you to conceptualize
and carry out the affair of your
dreams.
Withstanding more than
three-quarters of a Century atop
San Francisco’s prestigious Nob
Hill, the Huntington Hotel is
regarded as one of the last bastions of the city’s deep historic
roots. It’s the ultimate venue for
magical moments and precious
memories.
The Spa
Nestled inside the Huntington Hotel you will find a tranquil sanctuary, the Nob Hill Spa. Embark with them on a journey towards longevity. They have gathered inspiration from cultures long represented in San Francisco to create a memorable experience for you. Unwind, relax and reconnect to the gentle pleasures of life. The spa, overlooking the glorious
city skyline down to the San Francisco Bay includes an in door pool (for guests 16 yrs. And older), whirlpool, fireplaces,
wellness studio, fitness equipment, men’s and women’s locker rooms with saunas and steam rooms. The treatment
rooms are comfortably designed with one-of-a-kind cultural antiques and accents, and the facility is carefully
arranged according to the ancient theories of feng shui. While on your journey, enjoy the unique massages, facials,
nail services, body treatments and wellness activities that reflect rich healing traditions , for a complete spa retreat,
in the heart of San Francisco. They welcome you to share in their gentle
expression of quality life and Longevity.
The Huntington Hotel’s
gracious Doorman
ScenTao
Experience the calm…Based on the oriental philosophy of health, the
goal of this unique two-part wellness treatment is to bring free flow to the
body’s energy. Using Asian plant extracts such as Ginkgo, Green Tea and
Bamboo, the journey begins with a full body aromatherapy exfoliation. Heated
stones are then used with massage along meridians to enliven the Qi. Green
Tea is served to bring health and a Scentao aromatherapy facial follows to
create a feeling of total well-being.
Guests of the Huntington Hotel, sixteen years and older, have complimentary use of the Nob Hill Spa facilities during their stay. For visitors not staying with them, the daily fee is $35 and is available Monday through Thursday. The
fee is waived with a purchase of a 50 minutes body treatment, facial or massage
appointment. They recommend arriving 30 minutes before your appointment in
order to shower and relax before your spa service.
L.F.
Le Bon Marché Paris, Henri Bendel New York,
Barney’s New York and Beverly Hills.
Call us on 0870 333 0411
www.bodas.co.uk